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World Cup: Maicon and Sandro still in Brazil boss Luiz Felipe Scolari's plans

Manchester City's Maicon remains in Luiz Felipe Scolari's plans but has been told he must play more this season.

By Paulo Freitas

Last Updated: 05/07/13 11:53am

Maicon: Has been challenged to play himself back into the Brazil squad

Brazil's preparations for next summer's tournament on home soil are going well after they triumphed in style at the Confederations Cup, with a number of young players catching the eye and expected to develop further over the next 12 months.

However, Scolari insists the World Cup squad is not set in stone and has given hope to the likes of Manchester City right-back Maicon and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Sandro that they can break back into the set-up.

Sandro was never in contention for a place at the Confederations Cup after missing the end of last season through injury and has been assured that he will get an opportunity when he proves his fitness.

Maicon, meanwhile, dropped down Scolari's pecking order due to his lack of appearances for City and has been challenged to feature more regularly.

The 31-year-old will be hoping for a greater number of opportunities under Manuel Pellegrini and his agent has indicated this summer that he wants to stay at the Etihad Stadium.

Asked if there were any players he might give chances in the national team, Scolari told Estado de S. Paulo: "Sandro is one of them, Romulo, a defensive midfielder who is playing in Russia (for Spartak Moscow), is another one, CSKA Moscow's right-back Mario Fernandes too.

"I am looking for players in that position as Daniel Alves' reserve Jean is not a full-back. Maybe Maicon if he plays again, as he barely played last season."